Is benzonatate safe for pregnancy?

Understanding Benzonatate and Its Safety During Pregnancy
Benzonatate, commonly known by its brand name Tessalon, is a non-narcotic oral cough suppressant that works by numbing the throat and lungs to alleviate coughing. However, its safety profile during pregnancy raises important considerations for expectant mothers.
FDA Classification and Risks
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes benzonatate as a Category C medication. This classification indicates that while animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Consequently, the risks associated with taking benzonatate during pregnancy cannot be ruled out. This uncertainty necessitates a careful evaluation of the benefits versus the risks when considering its use.
Medical Guidance and Recommendations
Healthcare professionals emphasize that the decision to use benzonatate during pregnancy should be made collaboratively between the patient and their doctor. This decision-making process involves weighing the potential benefits of relieving a severe cough against the possible risks to the developing fetus. Given the lack of definitive safety data, many healthcare providers may recommend alternative treatments that have a more established safety profile for pregnant women.
Community Insights and Caution
In various discussions among expectant mothers, there is a notable caution regarding the use of benzonatate. Many women report that it is not included in lists of medications deemed safe for use during pregnancy. Instead, alternatives such as Robitussin, which contains dextromethorphan, are often suggested as safer options. This anecdotal evidence reflects a broader concern within the community about the potential adverse effects of benzonatate.
Conclusion
In summary, while benzonatate can be effective for managing cough, its safety during pregnancy remains uncertain due to its FDA Category C classification. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare providers to explore safer alternatives and make informed decisions based on their specific health needs and circumstances. The overarching principle is to prioritize both maternal health and fetal safety when considering any medication during pregnancy.

Is benzonatate better than Mucinex for cough?

Comparing Benzonatate vs Mucinex
Benzonatate has an average rating of 4.1 out of 10 from a total of 773 ratings on Drugs.com. 31% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 62% reported a negative effect. Mucinex has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10 from a total of 154 ratings on Drugs.com.

Is category B safe during pregnancy?

Category A: No risk in human studies (studies in pregnant women have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus during the first trimester). Category B: No risk in animal studies (there are no adequate studies in humans, but animal studies did not demonstrate a risk to the fetus). Category C: Risk cannot be ruled out.

Which anti cough is safest in pregnancy?

Some doctors suggest trying to wait until after your 12th week to minimize any potential risks to your baby. Safe options include: plain cough syrup, such as Vicks. dextromethorphan (Robitussin; category C) and dextromethorphan-guaifenesin (Robitussin DM; category C) cough syrups.

Can you take benzonatate capsules while pregnant?

Not preferred due to limited data: Benzonatate: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medication. Safe use of benzonatate during pregnancy has been described, but there is minimal data on the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy. Other medications with more evidence for safety during pregnancy may be more ideal.

How can I break my cough while pregnant?

Cough

1. To help eliminate secretions, drink plenty of water.
2. Dextromethorphan syrup (e.g. Benylin DM) can be used to relieve a dry cough.
3. Most cough drops (e.g. Halls) are safe in pregnancy.
4. Consult your family doctor if: Your cough persists beyond seven (7) days.
5. Avoid preparations containing pseudoephedrine.

What cough medicine can I take while pregnant?

Certain cold medications are considered safe for most people during pregnancy. They include dextromethorphan (Delsym, Robitussin) for cough and antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine for a runny nose. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is also generally considered safe, as are most steroid nasal sprays.

Why is benzonatate bad?

There have been reports of serious benzonatate side effects in children under 10 years old. These include seizures, coma, and cardiac arrest. There have also been reports of death. These serious side effects are related to benzonatate toxicity (overdose).

What can a pregnant woman take for mucus in throat?

Safe Cough and Sore Throat Remedies During Pregnancy

• Honey.
• Dextromethorphan or Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin, such as Robitussin and Robitussin DM.
• Nasal drops or sprays.
• Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for aches, pains, sore throat and fever.
• Salt water gargling.
• Menthol rub on chest, temples and under the nose.

Who should avoid benzonatate?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Kidney or liver disease.
• An unusual or allergic reaction to benzonatate, anesthetics, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• Breast-feeding.

Is class B safe in pregnancy?

If there is a clinical need for a Category B drug, it is considered safe to use it. “Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available.